Unstoppable! 'A Movement of Compassion and Testimony' — Acts 4:32-35

Thursday, March 7, 2024

Merry Christmas!

We pray the Lord blesses you with the grace of Jesus' presence this Christmas!

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All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's great blessing was upon them all. There were no needy people among them, because those who owned land or houses would sell them and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need.
— Acts 4:32-35 NLT

Key Thought

I love that Luke made clear in telling the story of the early church that their compassion for each other grew out of their courage to testify to the resurrection of Jesus! They shared what they had with each other as their brothers and sisters in Christ had need. Why? Because there was a need. Because it was the right thing to do. Most of all, because Jesus was alive, and God's blessing was upon all of them. They were moved because Jesus was still with them through the Holy Spirit and their fellowship with each other. He was opening doors of opportunity to reach others on earth. He was using the Holy Spirit to empower, embolden, and bless his people. Their response was compassionate generosity for those in need.

Today's Prayer

Father, awaken us to the presence and power of Jesus at work in us through the Holy Spirit. I know, as the Holy Spirit's presence and power reign in our lives, we will display his fruit — the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control of Jesus! Open our hearts, dear Spirit of the living Christ, to see each other's needs and help with active compassion, concern, and care. For the sake of Jesus' Good News and his people, I pray this. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Romans 14:13-21; Philippians 2:1-11 ; 2 Timothy 1:6-7
  • Acts 11:27-30; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4; 2 Corinthians 8:1-4, 9:6-15

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 4:32-35 NLT — All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's great blessing was upon them all. There were no needy people among them, because those who owned land or houses would sell them and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need.

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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